Cheesy Zucchini Fritters

Zucchini has surged in popularity over recent years, evolving from a simple garden vegetable to a star ingredient in many culinary creations. This versatile squash is not only celebrated for its mild flavor but also for its adaptability in various cooking styles, making it a go-to choice for health-conscious cooks and food enthusiasts alike. One delightful way to enjoy zucchini is by transforming it into cheesy zucchini fritters—crispy, savory rounds that are as nutritious as they are delicious.

Discover the joy of making cheesy zucchini fritters, a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. These crispy, savory rounds combine the freshness of zucchini with rich, gooey cheese, making them an irresistible snack or appetizer. Packed with nutrients, these fritters are easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying. Serve them at parties or as a simple meal, and impress your guests with this fun, flavorful dish that balances health and indulgence.

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Ingredients

2 medium zucchinis, grated (approximately 2 cups)

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or substitute with gluten-free flour)

1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

2 large eggs

2 green onions, finely chopped

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

Oil for frying (choose vegetable or olive oil for best results)

Instructions

Prepare the Zucchini: Start by placing the grated zucchini in a large mixing bowl and sprinkling it with salt. Allow it to sit for about 10-15 minutes. This step helps to draw out excess moisture from the zucchini. After resting, take a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze the zucchini firmly to extract as much liquid as possible; this ensures your fritters won’t be soggy.

Mix Ingredients: In another mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, eggs, chopped green onions, parsley, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir the mixture vigorously until everything is fully incorporated and the ingredients are well combined.

Incorporate the Zucchini: Once the zucchini has been drained well, add it to the cheese and egg mixture. Gently fold the zucchini into the mix until all components are evenly distributed.

Heat the Oil: In a large non-stick skillet, pour in enough oil to cover the bottom by about 1/4 inch and set it over medium heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small spoonful of the fritter mixture into the oil — if it sizzles immediately, the oil is perfect for frying.

Form the Fritters: Using a tablespoon, scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the zucchini mixture and shape it into a small patty. Carefully lower the patty into the hot oil. Continue this process, leaving a little space between each fritter in the pan to ensure even cooking.

Fry until Golden: Cook the fritters for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy to the touch. Avoid overcrowding the skillet; if necessary, fry the fritters in batches to maintain optimal cooking temperatures.

Drain Excess Oil: Once the fritters are perfectly cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil, ensuring you end up with delightful crispy fritters.

Serve: Serve your cheesy zucchini fritters warm. They are delicious on their own or can be paired with your choice of dipping sauces, such as a spicy yogurt dip or classic ranch dressing for an extra burst of flavor.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 30 mins | 4 servings